Nik Bärtsch is a Swiss pianist, composer, and producer, renowned for his distinctive blend of music that straddles the lines between jazz, classical, and various world musics. Born in Zurich in 1971, Bärtsch's musical journey is marked by a continuous exploration of rhythm and space, showcasing a minimalist approach laden with repetitive grooves and intricate patterns—an approach he often refers to as "ritual groove music." His work is deeply influenced by concepts of Japanese aesthetics and the interplay between structure and improvisation, which is evident across his discography.

Holding a fascination for both acoustic and electric sounds, Nik Bärtsch leads two main projects: 'Ronin' and 'Mobile.' The former is an electric group known for its rigorous, layered soundscapes that invite both contemplation and movement, while the latter is an acoustic ensemble that employs a more modular and flexible compositional technique. Bärtsch's albums such as "Continuum" and "Awase," a term borrowed from martial arts, showcase the complex dialogue among instruments, a feature that characterizes much of his art. 'Awase', released in 2018, for instance, further solidifies his vision and symbiotic rapport with his bandmates. Outside his album releases, Bärtsch's live performances are highly regarded for their unique blend of precision and spontaneity, as captured in releases like "Déjà-vu, Vienna" and "Live." With his innovative approach to music, Bärtsch has carved out a niche that defies traditional categorization, making him one of the unique voices in the contemporary music scene.